As a well-known Americana Route 66 photographer, there is no doubt that Efren Lopez has had his share of attention in books, magazines, postcards and gift shops, but his affinity for showcasing other artists is what is in his viewfinder. Working with the Verde Valley Cultural Collective, of which he is a founding member, Lopez has opened the 369 Gallery in Camp Verde, where he will be showcasing local Verde Valley artists. Adjacent to the 369 Gallery is The Little Gallery, a restored retro … [Read more...] about Galleries Galore
Keeping Others on Their Toes
With a smile as vibrant as her energy, Michelle Elton, the owner of Camp Verde Dance and Fitness, is not only a ballet master but also an instructor who teaches a wide range of popular fitness and dance classes to people of all ages. “My whole life is dance,” said Elton. “It’s my life and my passion. I get the biggest enjoyment from teaching kids, teenagers and seniors. I teach them in the same manner I was raised.” Many little girls want to be ballerinas, but Elton’s wish came true. She … [Read more...] about Keeping Others on Their Toes
Building Connections, Creating Stability, Forging a Steady Path Forward
When it comes to running the Town of Camp Verde, Miranda Fisher doesn’t kid around. The dynamic 36-year-old stepped into the position of Camp Verde town manager just six months ago and has devised a tactical action plan to work from the inside out. “I’m taking a steady path forward focusing internally and getting our staff performing at the best capacity they can so we can have stabilization amongst the team. Every department is getting a deep dive action comprehensive efficiency plan for … [Read more...] about Building Connections, Creating Stability, Forging a Steady Path Forward
Looking Ahead to a New Year with Healthier Pets
As they make New Year’s resolutions to improve their own health, many pet owners also are focusing on making sure their pets eat healthier foods in the year ahead. In a trend toward the humanization of pet foods, they are seeking high-quality, nutritious foods modeled after their own human dieteary preferences, such as holistic foods that provide fewer chemicals, additives and undesirable ingredients. This trend, with its focus on raw pet foods from the freezer and freeze-dried pet products … [Read more...] about Looking Ahead to a New Year with Healthier Pets
Flagstaff Plans Public Art, Beautification Projects for the New Year
The City of Flagstaff’s Beautification, Arts and Sciences program kicks off the New Year with momentum, expecting to complete more than 20 projects in 2025. Small-scale and large installations will continue to connect residents and visitors to their surroundings, turning everyday spaces into engaging landmarks and gathering points. An art glass façade and a monumental sculpture will adorn the new Downtown Connection Center set to open this spring. Illuminated with lighting effects at night, … [Read more...] about Flagstaff Plans Public Art, Beautification Projects for the New Year
Realistic Goals to Set in Early Recovery, Tips to Obtain Them
When a person is in the early recovery stages of addiction, it is a transformative position for that person’s life. It is often filled with hope of what the future may bring. Uncertainties and the difficult aspects of making life-altering changes start to set in. Citing realistic goals during this period sets the person up for success as each goal, no matter how small, is an achievement that leads to the next, which eventually can lead to a lifetime of sobriety when taken seriously. Here are a … [Read more...] about Realistic Goals to Set in Early Recovery, Tips to Obtain Them
Announcing a New Choice in Hearing Protection
One of the first questions I ask a new patient is whether they have a history of loud noise exposure. Some say no, some mention hunting, while most brush it off as listening to loud music in their youth. But the truth is that, especially in our modern world, everyone is exposed to unsafe levels of noise at some point in their lives. While noise pollution is a major concern, most people don’t consider it in their daily lives. However, protecting your ears from loud noise is one of the best ways … [Read more...] about Announcing a New Choice in Hearing Protection
Two Things You Can Count On in the 2025 Housing Market
Speculation can make the housing market seem like one big guessing game! Will rates go up or down? Will values go up or down? Will people want to buy in Northern Arizona or not? Will rules and regulations change? The list could go on, but while those speculations can have a place, today is about firm ground and what you can “take to the bank” when it comes to the 2025 Housing Market. New Year, New Loan Limits Loan limits are important to the general consumer as conforming loans as well as … [Read more...] about Two Things You Can Count On in the 2025 Housing Market
How to Set New Year’s Health Outcomes Rather Than Resolutions
It is a new year, 2025, and the holidays have concluded. Many people set New Year’s resolutions and never stick with them. Either they make resolutions that are too lofty to accomplish, they may not know how to do the things they want to accomplish, or they lack the steps to hold themselves accountable to reach their goals. An easy way to be successful is to not set resolutions but set healthy outcomes. The difference is setting resolutions lacks action steps or direction on how to achieve … [Read more...] about How to Set New Year’s Health Outcomes Rather Than Resolutions
Key Points to Consider for Those Seeking a Mortgage This Year
Securing a mortgage can be one of the most significant financial decisions you make, and navigating the process in today’s market requires careful planning and informed decision-making. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance, understanding current trends, preparing your finances and exploring new mortgage options can help set you up for success. From keeping an eye on interest rates to leveraging technology, these seven key points provide critical considerations to help … [Read more...] about Key Points to Consider for Those Seeking a Mortgage This Year